REDLANDS local Melissa Anderson is using the power of photography to unite women in her new project Loud and Luminous.
The project, which Ms Anderson co-developed with award-winning Canberra photographer Hilary Wardhaugh, showcases the work of female photographers and has run annually since 2017.
In 2019, about 100 photographers have taken part submitting their work based on the theme of power.
Ms Wardhaugh said the Loud and Luminous project celebrated and recognised the contributions of contemporary women photographers in Australia.
“We have both worked in the industry for over 25 years and during that time we’ve see little progress for female photographic artists,” Ms Wardhaugh said.
“Loud and Luminous is designed to empower girls and women to pursue creative careers and it is strongly focused on gender equality in the arts."
Project co-curator Melissa Anderson said one of the main aims of Loud and Luminous was to bring female artists together for a discussion that celebrated diversity and promoted cultural change.
“Some of the stories told in the 2019 exhibition address important social issues, and often silent stories that many women are afraid to share,” Ms Anderson said.
“While this is an Australian initiative, it has the potential to extend internationally in its message and appeal on gender equality and empowerment."
Ms Anderson photographed Rosie Batty, domestic violence campaigner and 2015 Australian of the Year, for her entry to the project.
"I photographed Rosie to reflect her resilience and determination in creating a better world," Ms Anderson said.
"To me, that is empowerment."
The 2019 Loud and Luminous project includes a symposium at Australian National University in Canberra on International Women's Day, a book presentation to the National Library of Australia and a print exhibition in Sydney in April and May.
It also includes multimedia presentations which will be online from March to May.
Ms Anderson said she also aimed to bring the project to the Redlands in October to celebrate International Day of the Girl Child.
